The U.S. House passed the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) by voice vote on September 15, 2026, directing DOT and NHTSA to require AM radio as factory-standard equipment in all new passenger vehicles at no extra cost. The bill would bar automakers from charging fees or subscriptions for AM access. Supporters say AM remains vital for emergency alerts and local information, particularly in rural areas. A companion Senate bill, S.315, has 60+ cosponsors and cleared committee but still needs full Senate approval.
House Passes H.R. 979 Requiring Free AM Radio In All New U.S. Passenger Vehicles
NRB CEO Troy Miller speaks at the NRB Christian Media Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, March 2022. (credit: Courtesy)
The U.S. House of Representatives approved the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) by voice vote on September 15, 2026. The measure would require automakers to include AM broadcast radio as factory-standard equipment in every new passenger vehicle manufactured or imported into the United States at no additional cost.
What the Bill Would Do
H.R. 979 directs the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to develop and issue a regulation making AM radio standard equipment in new passenger vehicles. The bill would also prohibit automakers from charging extra fees or subscription charges to enable access to AM stations.
Why Supporters Back the Measure
Supporters argue AM radio remains an essential public-safety tool because it can broadcast during emergencies when cellular networks, internet services, or power infrastructure are down. Advocates also note AM’s continuing role in delivering local news, weather, emergency alerts and agricultural information—especially for rural communities where other communications may be less reliable.
“AM radio is a lifeline. When the power goes out, when the cell towers go down, and when the Internet cuts off during a storm or an emergency, AM radio is often the only way families can get the life-saving information they need,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), who introduced the legislation in the 118th Congress.
Reactions
The National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), an international association of Christian communicators, praised the House vote. Troy A. Miller, President and CEO of NRB, called the outcome "a major victory for radio and free broadcast distribution as a whole." NRB said it will continue coordinating with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and other coalition partners as the measure moves to the Senate.
Former President Donald Trump previously expressed support for preserving AM radio in vehicles. Speaking at the NRB's 2024 International Christian Media Convention, he said he would act to protect AM radio at the request of the NRB.
Next Steps
A companion Senate bill, S.315, has collected more than 60 cosponsors and previously advanced out of the Senate Commerce Committee. The Senate must still consider and pass the bill before it can be sent to the president for signature. If approved, DOT/NHTSA would be required to adopt the regulatory standard specified in the statute.
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